JP2003139768A - Instrument for measuring excretion - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily remove a deposit inside an excretion conveying piping to provide a highly reliable measured value for a long period. SOLUTION: An outlet 901 of a container 900 filled with a solution containing hypochlorite ion CLO- of a cleaning agent is connected to a water disposal port of a tube 152 positioned in a lower part of a rim attaching type urine collecting unit 12 in periodical maintenance, the solution in the container 900 is sucked from the tube 152 to clean an inside of the piping, and the deposit inside the piping is thereby removed to provide the highly reliable measured value for the long period, in an urine inspecting device 10.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an excrement measuring device capable of easily removing deposits inside excrement transport pipes.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as an excrement measuring device, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No.
There is a toilet-mounted urine analysis unit shown in -198660. This is to send the urine of the user collected by a urine sampling device provided in the toilet part of the toilet to a separately provided measuring unit through a pipe to analyze the components of urine.

[0003]

However, when excrement is collected and sent to the measurement unit, spores of algae, mold and the like floating in the air are also sucked at the same time, and these adhere to the inner wall of the pipe. May breed. In addition, the inside of the excrement measuring device is kept at a constant temperature to maintain the measurement stability of the measuring unit, and the nutrient source derived from excrement remains, which is suitable for the growth of algae and mold. It has become. For this reason, there is a problem in that the area of the pipeline is reduced or blocked due to the propagation of algae or mold, which may interfere with urine collection and measurement.

As a countermeasure for this, conventionally, the piping member is regularly replaced, a buffer solution containing a bacteriostatic agent is filled and stored in the piping, a high-temperature liquid is passed through the piping member, For example, they added antifungal agents. However, in these methods described above, the pipe replacement work is complicated and unhygienic, or the excrement measuring device itself needs to be large because the amount of the buffer used is large, and the heat-resistant member increases the cost. However, there were still problems such as not being able to exert antifungal effect in all installation environments. Furthermore, when breeding algae, molds and other bacteria, unexpected things may occur. In other words, even if you can prevent breeding in the laboratory or some installation place,
There is also a problem that if you suck something with strong fertility, you may not be able to achieve the desired effect.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to easily remove deposits inside excrement transport pipes and obtain highly reliable measured values over a long period of time. The object is to provide an excrement measuring device.

[0006]

[Means for Solving the Problem and Its Action / Effect] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, claim 1 includes a urine collecting part for rotating the inside of a toilet bowl to receive excrement of a user, and the excrement. A sensor mechanism for measuring the concentration of a predetermined component, a liquid feed pipe for feeding the excrement from the urine collection unit to the sensor mechanism, and a drainage for draining the excrement fed to the sensor mechanism into the toilet bowl. In the excrement measuring device provided with a liquid pipe and a liquid sending / discharging means for sending and discharging liquid, a cleaning means for sending a pipe cleaning agent is provided inside the liquid sending pipe and the drainage pipe. Therefore, since the deposits inside the pipes can be removed by the pipe cleaning agent, highly reliable measurement values can be obtained for a long period of time.

According to a second aspect, in the excrement measuring apparatus according to the first aspect, the cleaning means has an outlet of a container storing the pipe cleaning agent at an end of the drainage pipe facing the inside of the toilet bowl. It was decided that the pipe was cleaned by detachably connecting it and feeding the pipe cleaning agent from the drainage pipe to the urine collecting part via the liquid feeding pipe. Therefore, at the time of periodic maintenance or the like, by connecting the container storing the pipe cleaning agent, the pipe can be easily and hygienically cleaned.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the excrement measurement according to the second aspect, a locking portion is provided on the outer shell of the container, and the locking portion allows the container to be stably fixed to another member. . Therefore, the container is stable even during cleaning, and the pipe cleaning agent in the container does not spill.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the excrement measuring apparatus according to the first to third aspects, the liquid delivery of the pipe cleaning agent by the cleaning means is based on a predetermined operation of the user. It was decided to be performed by driving the means. Therefore, it is possible to wash using the existing liquid sending and draining means,
It is not necessary to provide a special mechanism for cleaning the pipeline and the cost increase can be suppressed.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the excrement measuring apparatus according to the first to fourth aspects, the inside of the liquid delivery pipe and the drainage pipe is provided when the pipe cleaning agent is delivered by the cleaning means. Then, the pipe cleaning agent was retained for a certain period of time. Therefore, by keeping the pipe cleaning agent in the pipe for about 10 seconds, for example, algae and mold can be removed more reliably.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the excrement measuring apparatus according to the first to fifth aspects, after the pipe cleaning agent is fed by the cleaning means, the liquid feeding pipe and Water was passed through the drainage pipe to prevent the pipe cleaning agent from remaining. Therefore, the remaining pipe cleaning agent does not affect the subsequent measurements.

According to a seventh aspect, in the excrement measuring apparatus according to the first to sixth aspects, the pipe cleaning agent is a solution containing hypochlorite ion. Therefore, a high cleaning effect can be obtained by the hypochlorous ion.

[0013]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which a urine test device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is attached to a western-style toilet 100. The urine test apparatus 10 includes a measurement unit 11 and a rim-mounted urine collection unit 12. Further, the Western-style toilet 100 includes a toilet seat 102, a toilet lid 104, and a flush water tank 106. FIG. 2 is a side view showing a state in which the rim-mounted urine collecting unit 12 is mounted on the Western-style toilet bowl 100. The toilet seat 102 and the toilet lid 104 are open in FIG. 1 and closed in FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the urine test apparatus 10.

As shown in FIG. 1, the western-style toilet 100 is equipped with a wash water tank 106 at the upper rear portion thereof, and a pipe 14 for supplying wash water to the measuring unit 11 is connected to the wash water tank 106. Has been done. Also, as will be described in detail later, the measurement unit 11 is placed on the floor,
The rim-mounted urine collection unit 12 is attached to the rim of the Western-style toilet 100.

As shown in FIG. 3, the measuring unit 1
1 and the rim-mounted urine collection unit 12 include a water supply unit 15 connected to the wash water tank 106 and a wash water tank 106.
A pump 16 for supplying water from the rotary valve, a rotary valve syringe 18 including a rotary valve and a syringe, a liquid receiving container 25 for receiving leaked water or overflow water from the rotary valve syringe 18, and a rotary for driving the rotary valve. Valve drive motor 20
A syringe drive motor 22 that drives a syringe, a urine collection arm drive motor 23 that drives an extendable / storable urine collection arm 32 that collects urine excreted by a user, and a calibration solution tank 24 that stores a calibration solution. A buffer tank 26 for storing a buffer solution, a urine sugar sensor 28 for converting urine sugar into an electric signal, and a cleaning nozzle 30 for cleaning the urine collecting arm 32.
An electrode 34 for detecting whether or not urine has been collected in the urine collection arm 32, a controller 36, an operation unit 38 operated by the user, and a display unit 39 for notifying the user.
Similarly, a sound source 29 for notifying the user, a heating unit 250 for appropriately heating urine, a calibration liquid, etc. sent to the urine sugar sensor 28, and a temperature for directly or indirectly detecting the liquid temperature. A sensor 251, a temperature sensor 261 that monitors the temperature in the toilet room, and a heating unit 236 that heats the calibration solution and the buffer solution (or indirectly inside the measurement unit 11).
And a temperature sensor 237 that detects this temperature are the main components.

In FIG. 3, broken lines indicate electric paths, thin arrows indicate water flows, and thick arrows indicate urine / calibration / buffer flows.
Shown respectively. The water supply section 15 has a built-in strainer (not shown) that removes dust contained in the supplied water. Further, the rotary valve of the rotary valve syringe 18 and the rotary valve drive motor 20
Are collectively referred to as an electric rotary valve 176. In addition,
Needless to say, when measuring another component other than urine sugar, a sensor unit for sensing the component, each liquid tank, piping, etc. are additionally required.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the rim-mounted urine collecting unit 12. The rim-mounted urine collection unit 12 is made of an antibacterial material (for example, Bactekiller (registered trademark)) to improve hygiene.
And a resin using Zeomic (registered trademark). The rim-mounted urine collection unit 12 includes a urine collection arm 32,
Wash nozzle 30, urine collection arm drive motor 23, tube 152, discharge pipe 186, water supply pipe 15 to the wash nozzle 30
1 and the like are installed on a resin base 650 and configured. The drain pipe 186 and the waste water outlet of the tube 152 face the toilet bowl so that the drainage can be discharged into the toilet bowl.

As shown in FIG. 4, in the rim-mounting type urine collecting unit 12, a portion of the urine-mounting urine collecting unit 12 that comes into contact with the rim of the Western-style toilet 100 has rattling or rim mounting when the user sits on the toilet seat 102 to use. Backside of the Western style urine collection unit 12 and Western style toilet 10
Rubber and sucker 65 to prevent slippage with the 0 rim
1, etc. are attached. If the attachment location of the rubber, the suction cup 651, etc. is set below the contact of the cushion (toilet seat leg) of the toilet seat 102, the weight of the user is rubber, the suction cup 651.
Therefore, the anti-slip effect described above is further enhanced. The portion of the toilet seat 102 of the rim-mounted urine collecting unit 12 that comes into contact with the cushion (toilet leg) is designed to be one step lower than the other portions to maintain the levelness of the toilet seat 102.

FIG. 5 is a structural diagram of the urine collecting arm 32.
The urine collecting arm 32 is made of a metal-plated material in consideration of cleanability and strength. Since the urine collecting portion 652 of the urine collecting arm 32 has a bowl shape, it is easy to store urine, and
At the urine collection position, the urine collection port is attached so as to face substantially upward. Since the urine detection electrode 34 is disposed inside the bowl, it is easy to determine whether or not urine has been collected. Further, when the urine collecting arm 32 comes out into the toilet bowl during urine collection, the electrode 34 is installed at a position where the amount of liquid necessary for measurement can be secured. Are stored in the bowl. Therefore, there is no possibility that the measurement is started without a sufficient amount of urine and an erroneous measurement is performed.

Further, in order to prevent foreign matter from entering the urine collecting arm 32 and scattering of urine, a mesh-shaped filter 6
56 is installed in the urine collection unit 652. Filter 65
No. 6 has been subjected to antibacterial treatment to improve hygiene. A sponge film or the like may be used instead of the mesh filter 656. Also, the filter 656 is
The urine collecting arm 32 may be detachable from the urine collecting arm 32 to enhance the cleanability of the urine collecting portion, or may be integrally fixed to the urine collecting arm 32 to prevent loss.

FIGS. 6 and 7 are views showing the extended position of the urine collecting arm 32 when collecting urine. The positions suitable for collecting urine are different between males and females, and as shown in FIG. 6, the extension is larger at the female position. Specifically, an adult male is approximately 44 degrees from a horizontal plane, and an adult female is approximately 75 degrees. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, with the standard extension position substantially at the center,
It allows fine adjustment to the front-back position.

In the present embodiment, the water supply unit 15 is connected to the wash water tank 106, and the wash water tank 106
The tap water therein is supplied to the rotary valve syringe 18 and the cleaning nozzle 30 by using the suction force of the pump 16.
Here, if the water supply unit 15 is directly connected to a water supply to supply water by using the water supply pressure of the water supply, or if a hot water washing toilet seat is separately installed, the inside of the hot water washing toilet seat is not shown. The pump 16 may be omitted if a part of the water flow pumped by the pump is directly branched or before and after the pressure reducing valve for the water supply and is branched to the water supply unit 15. By doing so, the water supply system in the measurement unit 11 can be further simplified.

In the case where a warm water flush toilet seat is installed, although not shown, the water supply section 15 is provided at a portion where the hot water flush toilet seat water supply connection pipe is branched from the water supply pipe of the wash water tank 106.
May be branched. Further, in the case where a hot water washing toilet seat is installed, the water supply portion 15 is connected to a portion of the hot water washing toilet seat water supply connecting pipe (not shown) branched from the water supply pipe of the wash water tank 106, which is connected to the hot water washing toilet seat. By doing so, the branch portion is hidden by the warm water washing toilet seat, there is no problem in appearance, and the connection work can be simplified.

Next, the measuring unit 11 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 9 is a front view, FIG. 10 is a left side view, and FIG. 11 is a top view. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the measuring unit 11 is vertically long. For this reason, not only is it possible to set it up even in a small toilet, but also a user sitting on the toilet can easily operate the operation section provided on the upper surface of the unit without losing the sitting posture. The back surface of the measurement unit 11 is provided with three screw mounting portions 112 each having a screw hole in the center. If the back surface of the measurement unit 11 is screwed into the wall 119 through the screws, the measurement unit 11 falls down. There is no fear. Further, the hook receiver 11 is provided on the rear surface of the measuring unit 11.
5, the hook receiver 115 is engaged with a hook 117 which is separately fixed to the wall 119, so that the measurement unit 11 can be prevented from tipping over, and the measurement unit 11 can be easily replaced during maintenance and inspection. Can be removed from the wall 119 and moved.

In FIGS. 9 and 10, 24 is a calibration solution tank for storing the calibration solution, and 26 is a buffer solution tank for storing the buffer solution. Further, 242 is a calibration solution replenishing port, and 262 is a buffer solution replenishing port, a perspective view of which is shown in FIG. Further, 244 shown in FIG. 13 is a nozzle for replenishing the calibration liquid, and FIG.
Reference numeral 264 denotes a buffer solution replenishing nozzle, and the fitting shape of each replenishing port and each nozzle will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14.

As shown in FIG. 13A, the calibration solution replenishing port 242 has three recesses formed at 120 ° intervals in a circular inlet. On the other hand, the tip 244a of the calibration liquid replenishing nozzle 244 is formed at 120 ° intervals at circular outlets having a diameter slightly smaller than the circular shape at the inlet of the calibration liquid replenishing port 242 as shown in FIGS. It has two convex portions. When replenishing the calibration liquid, first, the coupling portion 244b of the calibration liquid replenishing nozzle 244 is attached to the nozzle mounting port of the calibration liquid bottle (not shown) containing the replenishing calibration liquid, and the tip 2
44a is inserted into the calibration solution replenishing port 242. At this time, the calibration liquid replenishing nozzle 2 is provided only when the concave portion and the convex portion match.
The tip 244a of 44 can be inserted into the calibration liquid replenishment port 242.

The buffer replenishing port 262 is shown in FIG.
As shown in (a), the circular entrance has four recesses formed at 90 ° intervals. On the other hand, the buffer replenishing nozzle 2
As shown in FIGS. 14B and 14C, the tip 264 a of 64 has two convex portions formed at 180 ° intervals at a circular outlet slightly smaller than the circular inlet of the buffer replenishing port 262. is doing. When replenishing the buffer solution, first, attach the coupling portion 264b of the buffer solution replenishing nozzle 264 to the nozzle mounting port of the buffer solution bottle (not shown) containing the replenishing buffer solution,
The tip 264a is inserted into the buffer solution replenishing port 262. At this time, the tip 264a of the buffer solution replenishing nozzle 264 can be inserted into the buffer solution replenishing port 262 only when the concave portion and the convex portion match.

With the above-described structure, the tip 244a of the calibration solution replenishing nozzle 244 is provided with the buffer solution replenishing port 262.
Since it is physically impossible for the tip 264a of the buffer solution replenishing nozzle 264 to be inserted into the calibration solution replenishing port 242, a solution replenishment error can be avoided. Furthermore, if the structure for connecting the calibration liquid replenishing nozzle 244 to the calibration liquid bottle and the structure for connecting the buffer liquid replenishing nozzle 264 to the buffer liquid bottle are made different from each other due to the difference in shape and inner diameter,
It is also possible to avoid mistakes in mounting the refill bottle and nozzle. Further, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the calibration solution replenishing nozzle 244 and the buffer solution replenishing nozzle 264 can be housed above the calibration solution replenishing port 242 and the buffer solution replenishing port 262 of the measurement unit 11. In other words, when the replenishing bottle is emptied and discarded, the calibration solution replenishing nozzle 244 and the buffer solution replenishing nozzle 264 can be reused.
The nozzle storage location is the cover 116 shown in FIG.
It may be the back side of. In FIG. 15, the nozzle is covered 116.
An example in which it is stored on the back side of is shown.

FIG. 16 is an internal view of the measuring unit 11. It should be noted that illustrations of inner unit tubes and harnesses are omitted. In FIG. 16, an operation unit 38 and a display unit 39 are arranged on the upper surface of the measurement unit 11. Also,
The urine sugar sensor 28 is installed on the upper side surface of the measurement unit 11 and is covered with a cover 243. A rotary valve syringe 18 is installed below the urine sugar sensor 28, and a urine or calibration solution or the like sent to the urine sugar sensor 28 is appropriately heated in a pipe path between the rotary valve syringe 18 and the urine sugar sensor 28. A heating unit 250 and a temperature sensor 251 for heating the interior of the unit are provided. In addition, the measurement unit 11
A calibration solution tank 24 and a buffer solution tank 26 made of resin are disposed in the lower part of the tank, and a heating unit 236 and a temperature sensor 2 for preventing the freezing of the solution in each tank and the pipe are provided in the vicinity thereof.
37 is installed. In addition, a temperature sensor 261, a pump 16, a power supply transformer 282, a power supply unit 215, a fall detection switch 283, etc. for monitoring the temperature inside the toilet room are arranged in appropriate places. In addition, a communication terminal 114 (eg RS232C) is also provided.

As shown in FIG. 16, since the calibration solution tank 24 and the buffer solution tank 26 are arranged below the power source section 215 and various electric drive means, even if the solution leaks from the tank, It is possible to prevent damage and deterioration of electronic parts and equipment due to adhesion, and it is safe without fire or electric leakage. Further, a drain 210 is provided in the lower portion of each tank, and the bottom surface of each tank is inclined toward the drain 210 direction. The drain 210 is the measurement unit 11
Since it is communicated with the outside of the device, the calibration liquid and the buffer liquid can be easily drained by operating the drain 210 from the outside without disassembling the measurement unit 11. Further, since the calibration solution tank 24 and the buffer solution tank 26, which are filled with the calibration solution and the buffer solution and are heavy, are arranged in the lower part of the unit, the installation stability of the measurement unit 11 itself is increased.

The measuring unit 11 is also designed in consideration of being installed on the floor in a place where it is not preferable to form a screw hole or the like in the wall 119 (for example, a toilet room of a rental house). . For example, as can be seen from FIG.
The main body of the measuring unit 11 is configured to spread from the upper part to the lower part so that the measuring unit 11 can be stably installed. Further, it is provided with a stretchable reinforcement leg 111 for more stability, and this reinforcement leg 111 is provided with a screw-adjustable adjuster 111a whose height is adjustable. The adjuster 111a may be directly provided not on the reinforcing leg 111 but on the leg portion provided on the measurement unit 11.

As shown in FIG. 16, the human body detection sensor 26 is provided near the operation unit 38 and the display unit 39 of the measuring unit 11.
0 is set. The human body detection sensor 260 detects the presence or absence of a person in the toilet room and the intrusion (or exit) of the person into the toilet room by detecting infrared reflected light. The controller 36 controls various actuators based on the output of the human body detection sensor 26, which will be described in detail later.
The installation location of the human body detection sensor 260 is not limited to the inside of the measurement unit 11, and may be, for example, the rim-mounted urine collection unit 1
It may be the front part of No. 2 or the like. Also, the means for detecting the human body is not limited to this example, and may be, for example, a microswitch or pressure conductive rubber for detecting the seating of the human body on the toilet seat, or a capacitance type for detecting a change in capacitance. May be. Also,
The human body may be indirectly detected by detecting the operation of each switch of the operation unit 38. Further, the human body detecting means provided in the warm water washing toilet seat device may be diverted (shared).

FIG. 17 shows a rotary valve syringe 18
FIG. Rotary valve syringe 18
Has a cylinder 166 and a piston 168, and the piston 168 moves up and down when the rotation of the syringe drive motor 22 is converted into a linear motion by the lead screw mechanism 172. The controller 36 controls the stroke of the rotary valve syringe 18 by driving the syringe drive motor 22. The port 174 of the rotary valve syringe 18 has an electric rotary valve 176.
It is connected to the. The electric rotary valve 176 includes a stator 178 having a plurality of ports and a rotor 180.
And a rotary valve drive motor 20 controlled by the controller 36.

The controller 36 drives the rotary valve drive motor 20 to rotate the rotor 180, so that the port 174 of the rotary valve syringe 18 is rotated.
Is connected to any port of the stator 178, and the rotary valve syringe 18 is driven to suck or discharge liquid (water, buffer solution, calibration solution, urine, etc.). The stator 178 has six ports, and the washing water tank 106, the buffer solution tank 26, the calibration solution tank 24, the transfer tube 150 to the inlet 118 of the urine sugar sensor 28, the transfer tube 76 from the urine collection arm 32, and the like. Western style toilet 100
To a discharge pipe 186 extending to the bowl portion of the. The outlet 120 of the urine sugar sensor 28 is extended to the bowl by a tube 152.

The port 174 is attached above the cylinder 166 and the piston 168 so that bubbles sucked in the syringe can be easily removed from the syringe by buoyancy. More preferably, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, when the cylinder 166 and the piston 168 of the rotary valve syringe 18 are arranged substantially vertically, the air in the cylinder 166 can be easily discharged. With this configuration, air does not remain in the syringe, and thus the urine sugar sensor 28
Air bubbles will not be carried inside and will not adversely affect the measured values.

As shown in FIG. 17, the rotary valve syringe 18 is constructed so that the electric rotary valve 176 can be separated from the upper portion of the cylinder 166 to replace the rotor 180 with another rotor.
Therefore, for example, if a rotor having a larger number of ports is used instead of the rotor 180, it is possible to add a sensor, a calibration fluid tank, or the like for testing other components other than urine sugar to the measurement unit. .

A carrier tube 150, a tube 152 (hereinafter collectively referred to as a sensor tube), and a discharge tube 186.
24. Each end (open end) of the stator 178 is placed on the floor so that the same pressure (atmospheric pressure) is applied to each port of the stator 178 when the buffer solution is filled in the pipe filling in step S200 of FIG. Fixed to the same height. For this reason, even if the transport tube 150 and the respective ports of the stator 178 of the discharge pipe 186 communicate with each other, the filled liquids do not mix with each other, and the calibration liquid that is subsequently driven into the transport tube 150 is not mixed. It is possible to reliably reach the urine sugar sensor 28 by a predetermined amount of a sample or urine.

FIG. 18 is a schematic view of the internal structure of the calibration solution tank 24 and the buffer solution tank 26. Calibration liquid tank 24,
Electrodes 621, 622, 623, and 624 as liquid amount detecting means are vertically inserted in the buffer liquid tank 26 to convert the liquid amount into an electric signal. On the other hand, as the same liquid amount detecting means, a float 625 and a display member 626 displaying the liquid amount on the surface are supported by a float support rod 627 and rotated around a shaft 629. The display of the display member can be displayed outside the measurement unit 11 through the window 628. This window portion 628 is a refill port 24 for the liquid.
Since it is installed in the vicinity of 2,262, it is easy to check the liquid amount in parallel while replenishing the liquid, and therefore it is possible to prevent the liquid from overflowing when the liquid is replenished by inadvertently overfilling.

For the same purpose, a float 800 as shown in FIG. 42 is provided so that the movement can be seen from the outside.
The liquid amount may be confirmed above and below zero. Although not shown, the liquid to be used may be colored so that the liquid surface can be easily seen by using different colors depending on the number of liquids to be used. By doing so, erroneous injection can be prevented. It is needless to say that each tank is made of a transparent material so that the amount of liquid can be visually recognized by the above-mentioned configuration, but the surface of the tank may be partially formed with a convex lens for easier viewing.

In FIG. 18, the electrode is the longest electrode 62.
1 is a common, and the electrode (L) 622, the electrode (M) 623, and the electrode (H) 624 are arranged in order from the longest. The parentheses of the electrodes represent the liquid level, respectively. The L level is used to detect when the required and sufficient amount of liquid has been exhausted for measurement, and the user is notified to notify that the amount of liquid has decreased M Level, H level 3 to detect when liquid replenishment is sufficient
You have set one level. The number of electrodes is not limited to this, and may be any number of two or more depending on the degree of required liquid amount measurement. Further, the liquid amount is detected by the conduction between the common electrode 621 and the liquid amount detection electrodes 622, 623, 624, but when electricity is constantly applied between the electrodes, the liquid component is deposited on the electrodes. . Therefore, the electrodes are energized only for a short time when the controller 36, which is the control unit, needs to confirm the tank liquid amount, and not always energized.

When the liquid amount becomes L level or M level, the calibration liquid replenishment LED 393 and the buffer liquid replenishment LE of FIG.
The user is notified by blinking and lighting D392. In addition,
The M level may be such that the remaining amount of liquid is about 5 to 15% of the effective volume in the tank. Further, if the detection result of the liquid amount is transmitted from the communication terminal 114 shown in FIG. 10 to the outside of the toilet by optical communication or the like and is received by the portable remote controller or the like, the decrease of the liquid amount can be performed on the spot. You can know without going.

In FIG. 18, two kinds of liquid amount detecting means, that is, an electrode and a float, are provided. However, the Hall IC and A position detecting means such as a micro switch may be provided and converted into an electric signal,
In this case, the electrodes are unnecessary. Similarly, if the liquid amount is displayed near the tank liquid replenishment ports 242 and 262 by the electric signal detected by the electrode, the float 625 may not be used.

43 and 44 show another example of the liquid amount detecting means. In FIG. 43, the weight of the buffer solution tank 26 is detected by a sensor that is a combination of the elastic body 810 and the micro switch 812, and is notified to the user.
When the liquid is sufficiently filled, the elastic body 810 contracts due to the weight of the buffer tank 26 and the liquid, and the micro switch 8
Turn on 12 to detect the presence of liquid. Then, when the amount of the liquid decreases, the elastic body 810 causes the buffer tank 2
6 is pushed up and the micro switch 812 is turned off.
Then, it detects that the liquid has run out. In addition, in FIG. 44, a certain height (M level / L level) is detected by using a sensor (float switch) capable of detecting the liquid level height above and below the float 814 having a magnetic material, and to that effect. The user is notified. If the amount of each liquid used for one measurement is constant, the remaining amount of each liquid may be calculated from the number of times of measurement to notify the user.

In FIG. 18, the outlet for taking out the liquid to the rotary valve syringe 18 is provided substantially at the bottom of the tank. Then, a strainer 630 is provided here,
Rotary valve syringe 18 and urine sugar sensor 2 ahead
Foreign matter is prevented from being mixed into 8. Further, since this drain outlet is provided substantially above the drain 210 provided at the bottom of the tank, the strainer 630 can be easily replaced when the drain 210 is removed. Further, since the portion of the drain 210 is lower than the other portions of the bottom portion, it is easy to collect the liquid even when the remaining amount of the liquid becomes small.

In the example described above, the calibration solution tank 24 and the buffer solution tank 26 are separate bodies, but they do not necessarily have to be separate bodies. For example, it is of course possible to use an integrated tank in which a single tank is divided into two chambers at an appropriate volume ratio and each chamber is provided with a liquid replenishing port in place of the two tanks. .

The purity of the calibration solution and the buffer solution directly affects the measurement accuracy, and therefore needs to be managed sufficiently. However, since the urine sample, the calibration solution, and the buffer solution are sent to the sensor via the rotary valve syringe 18, a small amount of the calibration solution tank 24 and the buffer solution tank 2 are switched when the solution transfer is switched.
There is a risk that other liquids flowing back to 6 may be mixed, and if they are piled up, there is a problem that the measurement accuracy deteriorates. this is,
This is because a negative pressure is generated in the tank due to the suction during liquid feeding, and this negative pressure facilitates the backward flow of the liquid into the tank.
In addition, even if the rotary valve syringe 18 malfunctions, the liquid may flow back into the tank. In any case, it is not preferable that the liquid once sent out flows back to the tank again.

In order to prevent this, a backflow prevention unit for preventing the backflow of the liquid between the rotary valve syringe 18 which is the liquid transfer switching unit and the calibration liquid tank 24 and the buffer liquid tank 26, as a concrete example, a piping tube. A check valve may be provided in the. Further, focusing only on the prevention of negative pressure in the tank, holes and valves for eliminating negative pressure in the tank are provided in part of the tank and caps 241, 267 (see FIGS. 9 and 10) of the liquid injection ports 242, 262. A member may be provided.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the urine test device 10 centering on the controller 36. The controller 36 is configured as a logical operation circuit centered on a microcomputer.
A CPU 362 that executes various arithmetic processes for controlling the rotary valve drive motor 20 and the like according to a preset control program, a built-in timer, and the like;
A ROM 364 in which a control program, control data, etc. necessary for executing various arithmetic processes in 362 are stored in advance;
Similarly, a RAM 366 in which various data necessary for executing various arithmetic processes in the CPU 362 are temporarily read and written.
And the detection signals from various sensors (for example, the electrodes 34) and signals from various switches of the operation unit 38 are input.
Input processing circuit 368 for converting into a processable signal of 62
Then, the rotary valve drive motor 20, the syringe drive motor 22, the urine collection arm drive motor 23, and the communication terminal 114 (for example, baud rate: 2400 bps, character length: 8 bits, parity: even, stop bit: 1, code: AS
CII, level: RS232C), and an output processing circuit 380 that outputs a drive signal to the display unit 39 and the like. Further, the controller 36 is an EEPR which is a non-volatile memory for storing data and the like and contents of trouble detection.
The OM367 is provided so that the stored contents will not be lost even when the power is turned off.

In this embodiment, the data storage section is provided in the measuring unit 11, but the data is transferred from the communication terminal 114 of the measuring unit 11 to the magnetic disk or the CD.
The data may be stored in a storage medium such as a ROM or an IC card so as to be portable and portable. Particularly in the case of an IC card, the effectiveness is extremely high because the storage drive can be miniaturized. Then, data is dropped from these storage media onto a personal computer, and various kinds of living information including personal meal contents are added by using dedicated software (which may also be downloaded from the measurement unit 11). This can be useful for comprehensive health management.

If a portable terminal device commonly referred to as a pedometer (R) capable of inputting a user's lifestyle (diet, exercise, etc.) can communicate with the urine test device 10. While analyzing the trend of measurement values, it is possible to disclose to the user a guideline that is specifically easy to implement, such as what dietary calories should be consumed or calories consumed by exercise. Such analysis may be performed by software of the urine test device 10 or the mobile terminal device, or if a more detailed analysis is desired, a method of using a public computer such as a public telephone line may be considered. .

A general method for inputting the amount of exercise into the above-mentioned portable terminal is to measure the number of steps by a vibration sensor and calculate it as calorie consumption. There is also a method in which the amount of exercise is calculated with higher accuracy by multiplying by. In addition, as a method of inputting calorie intake to the above-mentioned mobile terminal, selecting food eaten from the menu on the setting screen, inputting what was eaten by voice, inputting what was eaten by image recognition Various methods are conceivable.

As shown in FIG. 19, since the urine test apparatus 10 is equipped with the backup power source 670, even if the power supply is temporarily cut off due to a power failure or the like, the problem that the built-in timer shifts can be prevented. it can. The capacity of the backup power supply 670 can be variously considered depending on the operation of backing up when the power supply is temporarily cut off. For example, an electrolytic capacitor (supercapacitor) may be used as a backup for the low power of the above timer, and when the power supply is temporarily cut off during operation of the device,
A battery is preferable in this case because a relatively large power capacity is required when the operation is to be completed until the device is protected. If this battery is a type that can be charged while it is normally energized, it requires no maintenance and is easy to use.

Next, the urine collection arm drive motor 23 for driving the urine collection arm 32 shown in FIG. 4 and the rotary valve drive motor 20 for driving the rotary valve shown in FIG.
The syringe drive motor 22 that drives the syringe will be described. Although the type of these motors is not particularly limited, it is preferable to use stepping motors due to their characteristics.

The urine collection arm drive motor 23 shown in FIG.
It is driven by a two-phase excitation method. The normal extension, storage operation, and positioning are driven at a certain constant speed. In this case, in order to reduce the measurement time, it is desirable that the driving speed (for example, 200 pps) be fast, but when the arm position is finely adjusted, a slower speed (for example, 100).
Driving at pps) improves usability. When the urine collecting arm 32 is in the storage position, it causes a position shift due to vibrations due to opening / closing operations of the toilet seat 102 and the toilet lid 104 and the sitting / seating operation of the user, and when it is extended into the toilet bowl to collect urine. In addition, if the displacement of the urine is caused by the impact of the urine, the urine may not be properly collected as a result. In order to prevent this, when the urine collecting arm 32 is stored or when collecting urine, the controller 36 controls the urine collecting arm drive motor 23 by applying a holding voltage (for example, by one-phase excitation) to hold the position. . As a result, the urine collecting arm 32 is accurately controlled in position, and urine can be reliably collected.

In this case, since the power is wasted when the holding voltage is constantly applied, the holding voltage application is controlled according to the output of the human body detection sensor 260. Specifically, when the human body detection sensor 260 detects a person, the position shift can be eliminated by driving the urine collection arm 32 in the storage direction. Further, when the human body detection sensor 260 detects that a person has left, it is preferable to stop power supply to the urine collection arm drive motor 23 to prevent power consumption.

The syringe drive motor 22 shown in FIG.
Since the stepping motor is used, the driving speed of the motor, that is, various liquid feeding speeds can be easily and surely changed without complicated control only by changing the pulse rate applied to the stepping motor. It is very effective to have means for changing the driving speed of the piston 168 in the rotary valve syringe 18. For example, when cleaning the inside of the cylinder 166 or the piping path, a high-speed first pulse rate (for example, 100 pp) is used.
It is possible to reduce the time required for cleaning by driving in step s). On the other hand, when the calibration solution, the mixture of the urine and the calibration solution, and the buffer solution are fed into the urine sugar sensor 28, the urine sugar sensor 28 is driven at a low second pulse rate (for example, 20 pps) to the enzyme membrane or the like on the sensor. The damage can be reduced.

Further, in the measurement, the mixing ratio of both solutions when preparing a mixture of urine and the calibration solution, the calibration solution sent to the urine sugar sensor 28, the mixture of urine and the calibration solution, and the buffer solution (other than urine sugar) When measuring, use a sensor and liquid suitable for it), etc., and it is necessary to accurately manage the liquid transfer amount. Therefore, by using a stepping motor for the syringe drive motor 22 and the rotary valve drive motor 20, the management of these is facilitated.

It should be noted that all the above stepping motors start excitation in the same phase from the previously stopped pulse when the motor is started. When reversing, the number of pulses for absorbing gear and other play is added and applied. By performing these controls on a rotary valve and a syringe, which require particularly strict position control, extremely precise control can be achieved.

Next, the urine sugar sensor 28 shown in FIG. 17 will be described. The urine sugar sensor 28 is a transfer tube 150.
Alternatively, it is arranged at a position having a higher potential energy than the transfer tube 150 and the tube 152 so that the liquid does not leak even if the urine sugar sensor 28 is removed while the tube 152 is being filled with the liquid.

FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of the detection principle of the urine sugar sensor 28. Urine, which is a waste product of life activity, contains an extremely large number of chemical species. The urine sugar in the present application refers to glucose (glucose), but this is not limited to healthy people, but is often excreted in diabetic patients.
Its concentration is considerably lower than that of other components such as urea and ammonia. Therefore, the urine sugar sensor 28 is shown in FIG.
As shown in, it is necessary to have both a function as a probe for specifically discriminating glucose from many components and a function as a transducer for converting it into an electric signal. In the urine sugar sensor 28, glucose oxidase (GOD), which is an enzyme that specifically oxidizes glucose, is used as a probe, and a hydrogen peroxide electrode is used as a transducer. The detection reaction is shown below.

[0062]

[Chemical 1]

[0063]

[Chemical 2]

Further, the hydrogen peroxide electrode also reacts with uric acid and ascorbic acid, giving an output other than the above two equations and causing a measurement error. In order to avoid this, a selective permeation membrane that selectively permeates only hydrogen peroxide having a small molecular weight is formed between the molecular identification portion (enzyme membrane) and the signal conversion portion. In addition, if necessary, a membrane (diffusion limiting membrane) is installed to limit the diffusion of glucose in the sample into the enzyme membrane in order to expand the concentration range in which the glucose concentration in the sample and the sensor output are in a proportional relationship. It is also commonly done.

As shown in FIG. 20 (b), during the quantitative analysis of glucose in the urine sample, the potentiostat 130 was used to set the potential of the working electrode 135 (Pt) to the reference electrode 133 (Ag / AgCl) to a constant positive value. Working electrode 135 and counter electrode 13 so that the value becomes (for example, +0.6 V)
7 (Pt) and the current flowing therethrough vary depending on the amount of hydrogen peroxide generated. Therefore, the working electrode 135 and the counter electrode 13
The amount of hydrogen peroxide generated can be detected by detecting the current flowing between the device and the glucose concentration, and the glucose concentration can be calculated based on this. The current flowing between the working electrode 135 and the counter electrode 137 is converted into a potential difference by the resistor 132, the potential difference is amplified by the amplifier circuit 134, and output from the output terminal 136 thereof. The output of the output terminal 136 is input to the input processing circuit of the controller 36 and used for calculating the glucose concentration.

In general, a solution containing a known concentration of glucose, that is, a calibration solution is measured before or after the sample measurement, and the proportional constant of the change in glucose concentration and current value is clarified before the measurement. In the buffer solution, KC which stabilizes the potential of the reference electrode 133 and also functions as a supporting salt
1 and NaCl and buffers such as phosphoric acid are dissolved.

In the case of measurement by the conventional flow injection method, in order to increase the dilution ratio of the sample with the buffer solution, a method of reducing the amount of sample injection, lengthening the pipe from the sample injection part to the detection part, or sending Methods have been used to slow down the liquid speed and gain time for dilution. However, especially in a urine test device installed in the toilet of a general household, it is difficult to accurately and minutely collect a sample, and it is necessary to increase the length of the pipe to increase the time required for dilution. There is also a drawback that the buffer solution is wasted and the time required for measurement becomes long. Therefore, in order to solve the above-mentioned drawbacks, it was decided not to dilute urine with a buffer solution but to send it to the sensor as a mixture with the calibration solution to measure the flow.

In FIG. 22, where the sensor is stored in a buffer solution, first, a mixture of a urine sample and a calibration solution is further fed, then only the calibration solution is fed, and finally a buffer solution is fed. The sensor output when performing the flow measurement of cleaning the sensor with time is represented with the passage of time.

Before the measurement, the sensor is filled with the buffer solution and the output current of the sensor is stable at a small value (hereinafter referred to as "stable output current value". 0 in FIG. 22).
~ 2 seconds later). Next, a mixture of a urine sample and a calibration solution (in the present embodiment, a mixture of urine sample: calibration solution = 1: 1)
Is sent, the working electrode 13 is converted from glucose in the mixed solution.
Hydrogen peroxide is generated by the action of the GOD carried on 5, and the generated hydrogen peroxide is oxidized on the working electrode 135 to generate an oxidation current of hydrogen peroxide, and the current value has a certain peak value. (Hereinafter, referred to as "measurement output current value". Similarly, it corresponds after 6 to 9 seconds). Furthermore, when only the calibration liquid (in this embodiment, 200 mg / dL of glucose is added to the buffer) is fed, the current value takes a certain peak value due to the same reaction as described above (hereinafter referred to as “output during calibration”). Current value"
Say. Similarly, after 17 to 21 seconds). Then, by supplying the buffer solution again, the glucose in the vicinity of the sensor is washed and the current value is reduced to the level in the standby state (also after 30 seconds).

Generally, the output of an electrochemical sensor is very small due to a demand for downsizing, so that the output current value at the time of stability, the output current value at the time of measurement, and the output current at the time of calibration should be set so as not to be easily affected by noise. When determining the value, it is desirable to calculate from the sensor current value detected multiple times. As the calculation method, various methods such as a simple average and a maximum or minimum value of the moving average can be considered.

Next, a method of determining the concentration of the substance to be measured from the sensor output thus obtained will be described. The values used in the calculation are defined below. Sensor sensitivity to glucose = S (A / mg / d
L) Glucose concentration of calibration solution = Cstd (mg / dL) Glucose concentration in urine sample = Csam (mg / dL) Amount of calibration solution mixed = Vstd (dL) Amount of urine sample mixed = Vsam (dL) Stable Output current value at time = I0 (A) Output current value at measurement = Isam (A) Output current value at calibration = Istd (A) At this time, the current increase during calibration is the glucose concentration of the calibration solution and the sensitivity of the sensor to glucose. Since it is the product of

[0072]

[Equation 1]

Similarly, since the increase in current during measurement is the product of the glucose concentration in the mixed solution and the sensitivity of the sensor to glucose, the following equation holds.

[0074]

[Equation 2]

When S is erased and arranged from Equations 1 and 2,
Glucose concentration in urine sample Csam (mg / dL)
Is given by the following equation.

[0076]

[Equation 3]

Even in general electrochemical measurement, the concentration of the substance to be measured in the sample is calculated before or after the measurement, or periodically or irregularly after the sensitivity of the sensor is determined by the calibration liquid. . Further, in determining the composition of the buffer solution and the calibration solution, the following points are further considered.

In the example shown in FIG. 20, since the silver-silver chloride reference electrode is used as the potential reference, the potential varies depending on the Cl ion concentration in the solution. Therefore, it is more preferable to determine the Cl ion concentration of the buffer solution or the calibration solution in consideration of the Cl ion concentration of urine as a sample. The Cl ion concentration in urine changes depending on the content of meals and exercise conditions, but the KCl concentration added to the buffer solution is preferably in the range of 170 ± 80 mM (1σ), which is the average value of Cl ion concentration in urine. . The added salt is N in addition to KCl.
aCl and these may be mixed.

In this embodiment, an enzyme called glucose oxidase is used, and its catalytic activity varies depending on the pH of the solution. Therefore, it is more preferable to determine the pH of the buffer solution or the calibration solution in consideration of the pH of urine as a sample. The pH of the urine also changes depending on the content of the meal, medication, various diseases, etc., but the pH of the buffer solution is preferably 5.0 to 7.5 in consideration of the distribution of the urine pH. The pH buffer is preferably one that does not inhibit the activity of glucose oxidase, such as phosphate buffer.

In this embodiment, the calibration is performed for each measurement, but it is not always necessary to do this. For example, in the case where the inside of the apparatus is kept at a constant temperature and a sensor with a small variation in sensitivity is used, the calibration may be performed at regular intervals or at regular measurement times. Further, as can be seen from the equation 3, it is not necessary to measure the absolute amounts of the mixing amount of the calibration liquid and the mixing amount of the urine sample, and it is sufficient if the ratio of the mixing amount is known. For example, in the present embodiment, the mixing ratio can be calculated from the number of steps during suction / discharge of the stepping motor used to drive the syringe.

As another aspect of this embodiment, the properties of the sample (pH and Cl ion concentration) are detected in advance by a sensor installed in the middle route of urine collection, and the number of steps of suction / discharge of the stepping motor is adjusted accordingly. Then, if the mixing ratio of the sample and the calibration liquid is made variable, more accurate measurement according to the characteristics of the sample becomes possible. Furthermore, depending on the situation or always, the solution to be mixed with the sample can be a buffer solution instead of the calibration solution. For example, when the remaining amount of the buffer solution is abundant and the amount of the remaining calibration solution must be measured in a small amount, it is programmed to mix the buffer solution instead of the calibration solution, and the calculation (3) (Arithmetic expressions are omitted) may be applied.

In this embodiment, urine is used as a sample and an electrochemical sensor in which the substance to be measured is glucose is used. Applicable substances are urine sugar, blood glucose, urine protein, urine occult blood, L-ascorbic acid, L-lactic acid, cholesterol, phenol, ethanol, L-amino acid, and the like as applicable substances to be measured. In addition, this method is effective not only in the flow method but also in the batch method, and can be widely used for an amperometric biosensor using an enzyme that produces an electrode active substance.

Next, the operation section 38 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The manipulator switch 3 is provided on the operation unit 38.
81, a female switch 382, a cancel switch 38
3, memory / call switch 384, A to D switch 38
5. Cleaning mode switch 386, LED 39 of A to D
6, current time switch 387, power saving time switch 38
8, adjustment switch 389, urine sugar sensor replacement LED39
4, LED 395 etc. are being prepared. Operation part 3
Although not shown, the surface of each of the various switches 8 is provided with irregularities so that the switch can be identified, so that the switch can be clearly identified and the operation is remarkably easy. The identification of the switch is not limited to the unevenness, and colored light may be attached to each switch individually. It is also possible to change the size and shape of the switch so that the user can specify. Although not shown in this embodiment, various setting switches that are rarely used for the same reason may be set apart from the frequently used operation switch and may be covered with a lid. In this case, the user will not be confused by the many switches.

The fluorescent display tube 391 as the display unit 39 shown in FIG. 23 is provided with a character display unit 391a for displaying a character string of up to four digits including numbers, letters, symbols and the like and a date and time display unit 391b for displaying the date and time. ing. Character display portion 391a
As shown in FIG. 23, the last three digits each consist of seven light emitting segments, and in addition to the numbers from 0 to 9, the letters "E" and the symbol "-" (hyphen) can be displayed. In addition, the highest one digit is composed of two light emitting segments, and the number "1" can be displayed. The light emitting segment as described above is also used in the date / time display portion 391b. The current date and time (month, day, hour, minute) is normally displayed on the date and time display portion 391b, but when the current time switch 387 or the power saving time switch 388 is pressed, the time setting mode is set. When the adjustment switch 389 is operated in the time setting mode, the date and time display changes accordingly. Further, when an abnormality (error) occurs in the device, the letter "E" indicating the abnormality and its number are displayed.

In the present embodiment, the fluorescent display tube 391 is used as the display unit 39 because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to see clearly and brightly. Can be increased. Further, the displayed contents are not limited to the above contents. For example, it is very preferable for the user to display an explanation of the operating method, the current operating state, the measurement data, the transition of the data so far of each individual, and the instruction for health management. If the explanation of the operation method is displayed, it is easy for the first-time user and the elderly to understand and can be used with confidence. In addition, malfunction does not occur and erroneous data is not provided.

Unlike the case of testing in a hospital or the like, the urine test apparatus of the present invention is intended to be used by one person in the toilet, so that the operation method is displayed as described above,
Alternatively, by displaying the current operating state, the user can know what the inspection machine is doing, so that the user will not be anxious during the waiting time such as during data collection. As for the data to be displayed, not only the measured data of this time is displayed, but also the transition of the data so far, simple comments about the data and health management advice can be displayed not only in text but also in images such as figures, graphs and people. If you make full use of, you can get rid of the dark image of inspection and enjoy health management.

If the display unit 39 is a color liquid crystal, it is possible to easily convey these various kinds of information to the user. Further, by adopting a touch panel in which the operation unit 38 and the display unit 39 are integrated, a switch of the operation unit is not necessary, and if this space is used for the display unit 39, the display unit 39 can have a large screen, It is extremely easy to operate. Further, in the present embodiment, the operation unit 38 and the display unit 39 are fixedly provided on the upper surface of the measurement unit 11 as shown in FIG. Alternatively, the remote controller may be provided with an infrared light communication means, or may be a mobile terminal capable of inputting the above-mentioned lifestyle. It should be noted that when the light emitting segment used in the fluorescent display tube 391 is used for a long time, the brightness and the lighting speed vary depending on the frequency of use.
In order to minimize such variations in characteristics as much as possible, for example, an operation of turning on all the light emitting segments all at once for a predetermined time (for example, several seconds) may be performed periodically. In the case of liquid crystal, a screen saver may be used to prevent deterioration.

For the LEDs 396 of A to D arranged near the A to D switch 385 shown in FIG. 23, the following memory judgment and processing are performed. When the measurement result is stored, A to A are displayed while the measurement result is displayed on the display unit 39 (after step S426 in FIG. 29 described later).
Press the D switch 385. Then, the LEDs 396 of the pressed switches A to D are turned on. Next, if the memory / call switch 384 is pressed, the measurement result is stored. At this time, the position of the urine collecting arm 32 when collecting urine may also be stored together. A, which I pressed before confirming the memory
By pressing an AD switch 385 different from the ~ D switch 385, the measurement result can be stored again. In addition,
The result display disappears when the cancel switch 383 is pressed or a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes) elapses.

When the already-stored measurement result is recalled, the standby state (after completion of the next measurement preparation in step S650 of FIG. 24, which will be described later) or the preparing LED 395 blinking,
The memory / call switch 384 is pressed. Then L from A to D
All ED396 blinks. Next, blinking A to D
AD switch 38 located near the LED 396 of
When any one of 5 is pressed, the latest data stored in the pressed switch and the time at which the data was stored (hereinafter referred to as data) are displayed, and the LED of the pressed switch lights up, except for the pressed switch. LED turns off. In addition,
The data can be scrolled by the adjustment switch 389. Pressed A while calling the stored data.
When the AD switch 385 different from the ~ D switch 385 is pressed, the data and the like stored in the newly pressed switch are displayed. At this time, the LED of the pressed switch is turned on, and the previously turned on LED is turned off. The result display disappears when the cancel switch 383 is pressed or when a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes) elapses.

To erase the stored data or the like, the memory / call switch 384 is pressed, and then the switch 385 of any of A to D is pressed. And the adjustment switch 38
The data may be scrolled by 9 and the memory / call switch 384 may be continuously pressed for 3 seconds or more. The result display disappears when the cancel switch 383 is pressed or when a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes) elapses.

For example, when the data and the position of the urine collecting arm 32 are stored in the A to D switches 385 by the above operation, the A to D switches 385 are set instead of pressing the man switch 381 and the female switch 382 at the next measurement. By pushing, the urine collection arm 32 is extended to the position stored in the A to D switch 385, and the result after measurement is automatically stored in the pushed A to D switch 385. It can be simplified and there is no need to wait for the result display. Hereinafter, the man switch 381, the woman switch 382, and the A after performing the above-described storage operation
The D switch 385 is referred to as “measurement SW”.

Next, a urine sugar test procedure executed by the controller 36 of the urine test apparatus 10 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. When the power is turned on by inserting the power plug or the leakage protection plug shown in FIG. 9 into an outlet, the urine test apparatus 10 operates as follows.

After the initial operation (step S100), the transition to the priming operation (step S120) to the pump 16 is judged by the present time set judgment (step S110), and each motor (rotary valve drive motor 2
0, syringe drive motor 22, urine collection arm drive motor 2
Positioning of 3) is performed (step S150), and piping is filled (step S200). Then, the calibration liquid is sucked (step S350) and measured (step S40).
0) At this time, the sensor output is fetched into the CPU 362 and Gain (amplification degree of the sensor output) is set. Then, the inside of the urine collecting arm 32 and the syringe 18 are washed (step S450). Empty after cleaning (step S5
00) to discharge the cleaning water, and then the discharge pipe 186 is filled (step S550) and the sensor pipe is filled (step S60).
0) is performed, the next measurement preparation (step S650) is completed, and a standby state is set.

When the measurement SW is turned on and the measurement is started, "measurement" is performed in the calibration / measurement determination (step S700).
After the urine measurement (step S750), the calibration liquid suction (step S350) is performed to perform the calibration liquid measurement (step S400). After that, cleaning (step S450), emptying (step S500),
The discharge pipe filling (step S550) and the sensor pipe filling (step S600) are sequentially performed, and the process proceeds to the next measurement preparation (step S650).

Next, the above steps will be described in detail. Specifically, the initial operation in step S100 of FIG. 24 proceeds in the manner shown in the flowchart of FIG. First, the RAM 366 is checked and cleared (step S102). Next, after the fluorescent display tube and all the LEDs of the display unit 39 are turned on for a fixed time (for example, 2 seconds) (step S104), the nonvolatile memory EEPROM is used.
Confirm and repair the written contents of 367 (step S10
6) and read (step S108). Where E
The contents read from the EPROM include, for example, sensor life data, sensor energization time, and controller 3
8, the total energization time, the number of sensor replacements, the freezing history, and the presence / absence of other safety function operations. continue,
Freezing detection of the calibration solution, the buffer solution, and various pipes is performed by determining whether or not there is a freezing history (step S110), and whether or not the urine sugar sensor 28 is present is determined (step S112). Next, the remaining amount of the calibration solution and the buffer solution in the tank is detected (steps S114 and S116), and the sensor life detecting function for checking the sensor life is activated (step S118).
Let Negative (abnormal, etc.) in various detection operations
If it is determined to, the operation shifts to a safe operation of the product and an operation of displaying an abnormality, but details thereof will not be described here.

The positioning of the motors in step S150 of FIG. 24 specifically means, as shown in the flow chart of FIG. 26, extension and storage of the urine collection arm 32 by the urine collection arm drive motor 23 (step S152). Forward / reverse rotation of the rotary valve by the rotary valve drive motor 20 (step S154), and syringe drive motor 22
By raising and lowering the syringe (step S156) by the operation, the urine collection arm drive motor 23, the rotary valve drive motor 20, and the syringe drive motor 22
Is moved to a predetermined position by performing positioning such as butting. By the way, among the above-mentioned motors, motors other than the urine collection arm drive motor 23 are built in the measurement unit 11 placed on the floor, whereas the urine collection unit 1 including the urine collection arm drive motor 23 is provided.
2 is attached to the upper surface of the toilet bowl, and the user
There is a possibility that the position of the urine collection arm 32 may shift when the toilet lid 104 is rotated. For this reason, it is desirable to carefully position the urine collection arm drive motor 23 when the above position is set.

The filling of the pipe in step S200 of FIG. 24 specifically proceeds as shown in the flowchart of FIG. First, the port 174 is connected to the water port by the rotor 180 shown in FIG.
The water is sucked into the cylinder 166 by lowering it to about 2 (step S204). Then, the rotor 180 connects the port 174 to the port of the discharge pipe 186, raises the piston 168 to the uppermost portion, and fills the discharge pipe 186 with water (step S208). Next, buffer level> L
Is determined (step S214). Then, the rotor 180 connects the port 174 to the buffer solution port,
Cylinder 1 by lowering piston 168 to about 1/2
Aspirate buffer into 66. After that, the port 174 is communicated with the port of the transfer tube 150 by the rotor 180, and the piston 168 is raised to the uppermost position to fill the buffer tubes 150 and 152 with the buffer solution (step S216). If a negative determination is made in step S214, the buffer replenishment LE
Turn on D392.

Suction of the calibration liquid in step S350 of FIG. 24 specifically proceeds as shown in the flowchart of FIG. First, the port 174 is communicated with the calibration liquid port by the rotor 180 shown in FIG. 17, the piston 168 is lowered to about ⅛, and the calibration liquid is sucked into the cylinder 166 (step S354). And the rotor 180
Causes the port 174 to communicate with the urine collection port and raises the piston 168 to an intermediate position between the lowered position and the uppermost portion to discharge the calibration liquid in the cylinder 166 (step S3).
58). Note that the above-described calibration liquid suction (step S35
4) before, i.e. the rotor 180 allows the port 174
Communicates with the 150 port of the transfer tube, and the piston 168
Is raised to the uppermost position, the piston 168 is lowered several steps to suck the bubbles adhering to the vicinity of the port of the transfer tube 150, and the buffer solution containing the bubbles is discharged to the discharge pipe 186. good.

Specifically, the calibration liquid measurement in step S400 of FIG. 24 proceeds as shown in the flowchart of FIG. First, the port 174 is communicated with the discharge pipe 186 port by the rotor 180 shown in FIG.
68 is raised to discharge a small amount of the calibration liquid in the cylinder 166 (step S402). Next, the base voltage is adjusted (step S404). Then, the rotor 180 makes the port 174 communicate with the sensor port, raises the piston 168, feeds the calibration liquid to the urine sugar sensor 28, and samples the output current value of the sensor for a predetermined time from the start of the liquid feed (step). S406).

If it is determined to be "measurement" in step S700 of FIG. 24, the concentration of the target substance is calculated by the above-described calculation formula (step S408), and the result is displayed (step S426). Further, when it is determined as “calibration” in step S700 of FIG. 24, although not shown in FIG. 29, the stable output current value is acquired before sending the calibration liquid in step S406.
Difference between calibration output current value and stable output current value (calibration sensitivity)
Is calculated (step S408), and the calibration sensitivity is calculated by the CPU 36.
2 is set and Gain (amplification degree of sensor output) is set. In this case, the result of step S426 is not displayed.

At the start of the delivery of the calibration liquid in step S406, immediately after the port 174 is communicated with the sensor port by the rotor 180, the piston 168 is raised at a high speed (for example, 100 PPS) by several steps to move the piston 168 into the transfer tube 150. The bubbles in the urine sugar sensor 28 may be discharged to the tube 152 with a certain buffer solution. Further, the ratio of the calibration liquid delivery amount and the sample delivery amount is not limited to the same amount, but the ratio can be changed and set by a predetermined sensor and circuit so that the target measurement range can be obtained. .

Specifically, the cleaning in step S450 of FIG. 24 proceeds in the manner shown in the flowchart of FIG. First, the pump is turned on (step S452), and FIG.
The port 180 is communicated with the urine collection port by the rotor 180 shown in FIG. 4, the piston 168 is raised to the uppermost portion, and the buffer solution in the cylinder 166 is discharged (step S45).
4). Next, the rotor 180 connects the port 174 to the water port, and the piston 168 is lowered to the lowermost end to suck water into the cylinder 166 (step S45).
6). Then, the rotor 180 connects the port 174 to the urine collection port, the piston 168 is raised to the uppermost portion, and the water in the cylinder 166 is discharged (step S45).
8). Next, the rotor 180 makes the port 174 communicate with the water port again, and the piston 168 is lowered to the lowermost end to suck water into the cylinder 166 (step S46).
0). Then, the rotor 180 connects the port 174 to the urine collection port, and the piston 168 is lifted to the uppermost portion to discharge the water in the cylinder 166 (step S46).
2).

Next, the port 174 is connected to the water port by the rotor 180, the piston 168 is lowered to about 1/3, and a small amount of water is sucked into the cylinder 166. Then, the rotor 180 connects the port 174 to the urine collection port. In this state, the reciprocating motion of raising the piston 168 to the uppermost position and then lowering it again to about 1/3 is repeated twice (step S464). As a result, the small amount of water reciprocates in the flow path to the urine collection arm 32, and the flow path is washed. Next, the port 174 is made to communicate with the water port again by the rotor 180, the piston 168 is lowered to the lowermost end, and water is sucked into the cylinder 166 (step S466). And the rotor 1
The port 174 is communicated with the urine collection port by 80, the piston 168 is raised to the uppermost portion, and the water in the cylinder 166 is discharged (step S468). Then, the pump is turned off (step S470).

The emptying in step S500 of FIG.
Specifically, the procedure proceeds as shown in the flowchart of FIG. First, the rotor 180 shown in FIG.
74 is communicated with the urine collection port, the piston 168 is lowered to the lowermost end, and air and water in the transfer tube 76 are sucked into the cylinder 166 (step S502). The rotor 180 connects the port 174 to the discharge pipe 186.
The piston 168 is communicated with the port and the piston 168 is raised to the uppermost position to discharge the air and water in the cylinder 166 (step S504). Next, the rotor 180 causes port 1
74 is communicated with the urine collection port, and the piston 168 is slowly lowered to the lowermost end to suck air into the cylinder 166 and water in the transfer tube 76 (step S50).
6). Then, the rotor 180 causes the port 174 to communicate with the discharge pipe 186 port, and the piston 168 is raised to the uppermost portion to discharge air and water in the cylinder 166 (step S508).

The filling of the discharge pipe in step S550 of FIG. 24 specifically proceeds as shown in the flowchart of FIG. First, the rotor 180 shown in FIG. 17 causes the port 174 to communicate with the water port, lowers the piston 168 to the lowermost end, and sucks water into the cylinder 166 (step S552). Then, the rotor 174 allows the port 174 to communicate with the discharge pipe 186 port, and the piston 16
8 is moved to the uppermost position to fill the water in the cylinder 166 into the discharge pipe 186 (step S554).

The filling of the sensor tube in step S600 of FIG. 24 specifically proceeds as shown in the flowchart of FIG. First, determination of calibration liquid level> L (step S601) and determination of buffer solution level> L (step S6).
02). Next, the rotor 180 shown in FIG. 17 connects the port 174 to the buffer solution port, and the piston 1
68 is lowered to about 1/2 and the buffer solution is sucked into the cylinder 166 (step S604). Then, the buffer level> L is again determined (step S606).
Then, the rotor 180 connects the port 174 to the discharge pipe 186.
After communicating with the port and raising the piston 168 to discharge a small amount of the buffer solution in the cylinder 166 (defoaming) (step S608), the solution is sent to the urine sugar sensor 28 (step S610). After the sensor tube filling (step S600) described above, the piston 168 is pulled back by several steps to suck the bubbles remaining near the port of the transfer tube 150, and the buffer solution containing the bubbles is discarded to the discharge pipe 186. Is also good.

The next measurement preparation in step S650 of FIG. 24 is, specifically, as shown in the flow chart of FIG. (Syringe drive motor 22 lowers the syringe) (step S654), rotor position is set (rotary valve drive motor 20 reverses the rotary valve).
Forward rotation) (step S656).

The calibration / measurement determination in step S700 of FIG. 24 specifically means the reset state determination of the CPU 362 (step S700) as shown in the flowchart of FIG.
702), measurement SW ON determination (step S706).

The urine measurement in step S750 of FIG.
Specifically, the procedure proceeds as shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 36 and 37. First, when the man switch 381 is determined to be on (step S752), the urine collection arm 32 extends to the man position (see FIG. 2) (step S754).
Next, when the electrode 34 of the urine collecting arm 32 detects urine (step S756), the sample (urine) is sucked (step S758). Then, the urine collecting arm 32 is stored (step S760), and the surplus sample (urine) is discharged (step S762).

After that, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 37, the port 174 is communicated with the discharge pipe 186 port by the rotor 180 shown in FIG. 17, and the piston 168 is raised to discharge a small amount of the sample in the cylinder 166 (step S787). ). Then, the port 174 is connected to the calibration liquid port by the rotor 180, the piston 168 is lowered, and the calibration liquid is sucked into the cylinder 166 to be mixed with the sample. Then, the life of the sensor is counted up (step S788), the base voltage is adjusted (step S789), and the stable output current value of the sensor is detected. The rotor 180 allows the port 17
4 is communicated with the sensor port, the piston 168 is raised to feed the mixed liquid of the sample and the calibration liquid to the urine sugar sensor 28, and the output current value of the sensor is sampled for a predetermined time from the start of the liquid feeding (step S790). ). The difference between the measured output current value and the stable output current value sampled here is calculated and stored.

After the above operation, the rotor 180 makes the port 174 communicate with the water port, and the piston 168 is moved to 1 /
4 is lowered to suck water into the cylinder 166,
Then, the rotor 174 communicates the port 174 with the urine collection port, and the piston 168 is raised to the uppermost position to discharge the water in the cylinder 166 (step S792).
This is for cleaning the inside of the syringe contaminated with urine and the calibration liquid to improve the measurement accuracy, and this cleaning may be repeated a plurality of times as necessary.

When it is determined in step S752 in FIG. 36 that the female switch 382 is turned on, the urine collecting arm 32 is extended to the female position (see FIG. 2) (step S).
764). Then, after the urine collecting arm 32 stops at a certain position, the adjustment switch 389 is determined to be on (step S76
6), the fine adjustment operation of the urine collection arm is performed (step S768). Further, in step S756, if urine is not detected even after 1 minute has elapsed after the urine collection arm 32 is extended, the urine collection arm 32 is housed (see FIG. 2) by the 1-minute elapsed determination (step S770). Step S772). Then, the above-described cleaning (step S45
0), emptying (step S500), discharging pipe filling (step S550), and next measurement preparation (step S650) are performed, and a standby state is set.

FIG. 38 is a flow chart showing a modification of the urine measurement shown in FIG. 36, and step S in the example of FIG.
782 is added. In step S782 of FIG. 38, it is determined whether or not the cancel switch 383 is turned on within a predetermined time after the urine collecting arm 32 extends to the predetermined position (man position or woman position). Specifically, if urine is not detected in step S756, and if the cancel switch 383 is not turned on in step S782, the flow proceeds to step S770 to determine whether one minute has elapsed. If it is detected in step S782 that the cancel switch 383 is turned on, the urine collection arm 3 is detected.
2 is stored (step S784), and the process proceeds to 5 seconds elapsed determination (step S786). Here, 5 seconds elapsed determination is
This means determining whether or not the elapsed time from setting the urine collection arm 32 to a predetermined position in step S754 or S764 is 5 seconds or more. When it is determined in step S786 that the elapsed time is 5 seconds or more,
The above-described cleaning (step S450), emptying (step S500), discharge pipe filling (step S500), preparation for the next measurement (step S650) are performed, and the process stands by. On the other hand, if it is determined that the elapsed time is less than 5 seconds, the standby state is entered.

FIG. 39 is a diagram showing the output fluctuation of the urine sugar sensor 28 after energization. As described in FIG. 20 (b),
The working electrode 135 of the urine sugar sensor 28 is made of Pt (platinum) and has a constant voltage (eg, 0.6) with respect to the reference electrode 133.
V) is being applied. When the voltage is continuously applied to the working electrode 135, the surface of the electrode is gradually oxidized. Then, when the surface of the electrode is oxidized, the sensitivity of platinum to hydrogen peroxide decreases, as shown in FIG. That is, the glucose sensitivity (output) of the urine sugar sensor 28 decreases. Then, the above-mentioned interfering substances such as uric acid and ascorbic acid in urine output on the false positive side with respect to the sensor output, resulting in an error in the measurement result. Therefore, the voltage (0.6 V) applied to the urine sugar sensor 28 when the measurement SW is turned on.
Is set to an instantaneous low voltage (0V), and applied voltage (0.6V) again
Alternatively, the voltage may be returned to or the low voltage (0 V) is always applied except for the measurement operation, and the applied voltage (0.6 V
V).

FIG. 40 is a diagram showing temperature characteristics of the urine sugar sensor 28. As described with reference to FIG. 20A, the urine sugar sensor 28 carries an enzyme film. Since this enzyme membrane is a protein, it is easily affected by temperature, and as shown in FIG. 40, the enzyme activity becomes low at low temperature (for example, 0 to 10 ° C.), and the reaction of hydrogen peroxide on the working electrode 135 As a result, the sensor output becomes smaller as a result. On the contrary, when the temperature is high (for example, 30 to 40 ° C.), the enzyme activity is high and the reaction of hydrogen peroxide on the working electrode 135 is also good, resulting in a large sensor output. Although not shown, the enzyme membrane gradually loses its activity over time, and the output decreases with time. However, FIG.
According to the measurement sequence shown in 4, the urine measurement (step S750) is immediately performed, and then the calibration liquid is immediately measured (steps S350 to S400), the two are compared and calculated, and the result is displayed. It is possible to measure with high accuracy without being affected by the measurement environment.

However, in this sequence, since the urine measurement (step S750) is performed and then the calibration solution measurement (steps S350 to S400) is performed and the calculation is performed, it takes a long time to display the result. In order to shorten this time, the calibration solution measurement (step S350 to step S400) is not performed after the urine measurement (step S750), but the calibration solution measurement is performed before the measurement SW is pressed (step S350 to step S350). S400)
It is good to do. In addition, urine measurement (step S
750) and the calibration solution measurement (step S350).
~ The sensor output at step S400) is stored,
The result may be displayed by performing a comparison calculation with the sensor output at the time of urine measurement at the next urine measurement (step S750). As described above, by using the calibration value acquired at the time of the previous measurement, it is possible to significantly reduce the time until the result is displayed.

The above sequence for shortening the time is
This will be described by describing the differences from FIG. Figure 24
In the sequence, after various operations are performed after the power is turned on, the calibration liquid is measured in step S400, the sensor output is fetched into the CPU 362, and Gain (amplification degree of the sensor output) is set. In the sequence, the output value is further stored as a calibration value. Then, in the sequence of FIG. 24, step S
After the urine measurement is performed at 750, the calibration solution is sucked at step S350, the calibration solution is measured at step S400, and the calculation is performed using this calibration value. Calculation is performed using the stored calibration value or the calibration value acquired during the previous measurement.

With the above-described sequence, the measurement time and the time until the result is displayed are shortened. However, due to the temperature dependence of the sensor described in FIG. 40, the urine sugar sensor 28 was calibrated and urine was measured. If there is a difference in the measurement environment temperature at that time, an error will occur in the measurement result, albeit slightly. As described above, since the above-mentioned two sequences have respective advantages and disadvantages, the two sequences should be selected according to the needs of the user.
A selection switch (not shown) may be provided on the operation unit 38.
In addition, by using a timer means or a usage count measuring means,
It is possible to use a method of calibrating every predetermined time (for example, every 24 hours) or every predetermined number of times of use (for example, every 20 times). Furthermore, it is also possible to control the predetermined time to be changed according to the timing after the sensor replacement or when the power is turned on and the measured value. This control will be described in detail below.

After the power is turned on or the urine sugar sensor 28 is exchanged, the calibration is performed every predetermined time 1 (for example, 2 hours). At this time, when the calibrated value is equal to or more than the predetermined value compared with the previous output, the calibration is continuously performed every predetermined time 1 (2 hours). Automatic operation (automatic calibration) is performed every 2 (for example, 24 hours). In this way, the calibration time can be shortened, the amount of the calibration liquid used can be reduced, and deterioration of the urine sugar sensor 28 shown in FIG. 39 with time can be compensated. The time of automatic calibration may be based on when the power is turned on or when the urine sugar sensor 28 is replaced, but the automatic calibration may be performed once a day at a time set by the user.

Further, it is more preferable to perform automatic calibration based on the number of times of measurement, in addition to the above-mentioned regular automatic calibration. For example, if the number of measurements after the previous calibration is performed exceeds a predetermined value (for example, 20 times), the temporary automatic calibration is performed without waiting for the next scheduled automatic calibration. If the number of times of measurement is stored in the non-volatile memory 367, the memory is not lost even when the power is cut off, and the number of measurements can be reliably counted. Further, as described with reference to FIG. 40, since the urine sugar sensor 28 has temperature dependence, automatic calibration may be performed when the temperature changes by a constant temperature (for example, 2.5 ° C. or higher).

It should be noted that the sequence of FIG. 24 (high-accuracy measurement), which is highly accurate but requires a long measurement time, and the sequence (simplified measurement), in which the measurement time is shortened although the accuracy is slightly degraded.
As mentioned above, the user may be able to select two types of sequences, but whether to perform high-accuracy measurement or simple measurement depends on the elapsed time from the previous measurement and the temperature change amount. You may make it switch automatically.

Next, the heating section mechanism will be described. Figure 1
As described above, the heating unit 250 indicated by 6 is for heating the urine, the calibration liquid, and the like fed to the urine sugar sensor 28 to an appropriate temperature, and directly or indirectly detects the liquid temperature. A temperature sensor 251 is provided. Similarly, the heating unit 23
Reference numeral 6 is for heating the calibration solution or the buffer solution (or indirectly in the measurement unit 11), and is provided with a temperature sensor 237 for detecting this temperature. In addition, a temperature sensor 261 for monitoring the temperature inside the toilet room is also provided.
In addition, the buffer solution in the buffer solution tank 26 is stored in the transfer tube 9
The liquid is sent to the urine sugar sensor 28 by 2,150. Then, as shown in FIG. 19, the temperature sensors 251, 23
The signals from the input terminals 7 and 261 are input to the CPU 362 from the input processing circuit 368 in the controller 36, and the calculation result is output from the output processing circuit 380.
50 and the heating unit 236 are feedback-controlled.

FIG. 41 is a schematic diagram of the heating portions 236 and 250. In FIG. 41, reference numerals 92 and 150 denote transport tubes, 237 and 251 denote temperature sensors, and 263
Is an aluminum foil with good thermal conductivity. Here, since it is preferable that the transport tubes 92 and 150 have a bent portion in order to save a heating space, in the example of FIG. 41 (a),
The transfer tubes 92 and 150 are formed in a cylindrical spiral shape. The cylindrical spiral transfer tubes 92 and 150 are sandwiched between aluminum foils 263, and the heating section 2 is provided inside the cylinder.
36 and 250 are also adjacent to each other while being sandwiched between aluminum foils 263. Further, in the example of FIG. 41 (b), each of the transfer tubes 92 and 150 and the heating units 236 and 250 is formed in a flat spiral shape on a flat plate. In this case, it is possible to make the device thinner, and to fix it on the plane of the case of the measuring unit 11, which makes the fixing easier. Further, when the urine sugar sensor 28 is arranged near the urine sugar sensor 28, not only the liquid temperature but also the liquid temperature near the urine sugar sensor 28 can be heated. In order to improve the accuracy of measuring the temperature of the liquid flowing into the urine sugar sensor 28, the temperature sensor 251 may be arranged near the terminal end of the transport tube 150.

In the above-described embodiment, the transport tubes 92 and 150 are sandwiched between the aluminum foils 263 having good thermal conductivity in order to heat them uniformly. It may be sandwiched and heated by the heat transfer material. Alternatively, only the conveying tubes 92 and 150 may be placed in a container kept at a constant temperature such as a constant temperature bath to heat them. As for the part to be heated, not only the transfer tubes 92 and 150 parts but also the urine sugar sensor 28 parts and
It goes without saying that the calibration solution tank 24, the buffer solution tank 26, and other members of the solution sending system may also be included.

As the heating units 236 and 250, a tubing heater or a planar heating means is preferable in view of the advantages of cost and easy shape processing. It is also possible to use a heating element. In addition, the heating units 236 and 25
Even if 0 is not specially provided, it may be shared with other heat sources. For example, when combined with a hot water washing toilet seat or the like, the heating units 236 and 250 may be omitted by screwing into a hot water tank or the like which is a heat source of the hot water washing toilet seat.

Next, the role of the above-mentioned heating section will be described below based on this embodiment. The temperature in the toilet room may drop during winter nights, causing water pipes to freeze.However, if freezing occurs, it may damage tanks and piping, and even if there is no damage, Frozen calibration solutions and buffers change their properties. The calibration solution is an aqueous glucose solution (200 mg / dl in this embodiment), but once frozen, it does not reach the glucose concentration before freezing even if it is thawed. Also, the buffer solution is KCl or NaC as described above.
This is a phosphate buffer solution containing salts such as 1 and once these are frozen, these lysates crystallize, and even when thawed, the composition of the buffer solution before freezing does not return. For example, if the temperature of the toilet room drops at night and the buffer solution or calibration solution freezes, and then the temperature rises during the daytime and it is thawed, there is no apparent change in the measured value. It will not be possible to make accurate measurements due to large fluctuations in the temperature. Further, as described with reference to FIG. 40, since the urine sugar sensor 28 has temperature dependence,
The output value of the urine sugar sensor 28 fluctuates due to fluctuations in the ambient temperature of the toilet room, and the measured value fluctuates not only due to seasonal changes in temperature but also due to changes in the toilet room temperature during the day and night. In particular, when the temperature is low, the output of the urine sugar sensor 28 is reduced, and accurate measurement cannot be performed, resulting in low reliability.

In order to solve these problems, the temperature sensor 261 measures the temperature in the toilet room, and when the temperature falls below a certain temperature (for example, 5 ° C.), the heating unit 236 causes the calibration liquid tank 24 and the buffer liquid tank to be discharged. 26 and the inside of the measurement unit 11 are heated to an appropriate temperature (for example, 10 ° C.). Since the heating unit 236 is arranged below the measurement unit 11, the inside can be warmed up completely by natural convection. Further, when the measurement unit is relatively large and the internal temperature distribution has a difference, it may be forcedly circulated by a fan or the like. In this case, a warm air fan having both heating and circulation may be used to keep the inside of the machine at a constant temperature to maintain the measurement accuracy of the temperature-dependent measurement system.

In the above example, the tank 236 is prevented from freezing by the heating unit 236. However, in the unlikely event of freezing, the controller 36, which is the control unit, controls the calibration liquid tank 24 and the buffer solution. A freezing detection function for detecting freezing of the tank 26 is provided. Specifically, the temperature sensor 237,
When the detected value of 251 falls below a certain value (for example, 1 ° C.), the tank freeze “present” is stored and displayed on the display unit 39. Also, heating the calibration solution and buffer solution in the tank,
The presence or absence of freezing of the liquid may be detected based on the temperature gradient. Further, it may be possible to detect that the calibration liquid tank 24 and the buffer liquid tank 26 are empty, and in this case, a mask may be applied so as not to determine that the temperature sensor is frozen even if the detected value is below a certain value. Besides, the temperature sensor 23
Instead of 7, 251, an automatic reset type bimetal switch (not shown) may be connected in series with the heating unit 236 to prevent freezing. Also, freeze history is EEPRO
If the memory is stored in M367 and the memory is erased by performing a predetermined operation or liquid exchange, it is possible to reliably prevent the frozen calibration liquid or buffer liquid from being used for measurement.

As described above, when the temperature is low, the output of the urine sugar sensor 28 is lowered and accurate measurement cannot be performed.
In order to solve this problem, it is necessary to keep the temperature of the liquid flowing into the urine sugar sensor 28 high and constant. Now,
The temperature at which the output of the urine sugar sensor 28 is high and stable is about 37 ° C. Therefore, if the temperature of the liquid flowing into the urine sugar sensor 28, the temperature of the urine sugar sensor 28 itself, and the temperature of the entire measuring unit 11 can be controlled at this temperature, the most accurate measurement can be performed. However, if such control is attempted, the device becomes expensive. Furthermore, at this temperature,
Although the urine sugar sensor 28 has good characteristics, it has a short life (not shown). Therefore, in the present embodiment, the temperature of the liquid flowing into the urine sugar sensor 28 is controlled to a relatively low temperature (specifically, about 25 ° C.) in consideration of both characteristics and life.

Whether to give priority to this characteristic or the life is
It depends on the way of thinking of the user. That is, some people think that the sensor life, that is, the measurement accuracy is relatively inferior, give priority to the sensor life, and others want to give priority to the sensor output, that is, the measurement accuracy, even when the sensor life is relatively short. Therefore, in order to meet such various needs of users, it is advisable to provide the controller 36 and the operation unit 38 with a liquid temperature setting means. For example, if "high precision" is selected in the setting unit (not shown) of the operation unit 38, the liquid temperature is set to the temperature with the highest measurement precision (for example, about 37 ° C), and if "low precision" is selected, the liquid temperature is the sensor. The temperature is set to a long-life temperature (for example, about 25 ° C.).

The heating of the liquid has been described above. However, in order to keep the liquid temperature at a constant value or higher, only such a heating unit needs to be provided. If it is desired to keep the liquid temperature lower than a general room temperature (especially in summer), a liquid cooling unit using a Peltier element or the like may be similarly provided in addition to the heating unit.

Next, the prevention of the growth of mold and other germs of the urine test device 10 will be described. Urine contains substances that are nutrients for mold and other bacteria. As described above, the urine test apparatus 10
In the urine collection part, there is a urine transport route such as a pipe through which urine passes, and mold and miscellaneous bacteria floating in the air adhere to this and propagate. Not only are these unsanitary, but if they are not used for a long period of time, they may interfere with urine collection and measurement due to clogging of the entrance and inside of the tube, which is the passage route of urine, due to the growth of bacteria and mold. There is.

In order to prevent this, in the present embodiment, the anti-fungal material (for example, Vinadine (registered trademark)) was used for the liquid supply pipe for sucking and discharging urine including the tube 152. In addition to being composed of an elastomer, a trace amount (for example, 0.05 to 0.1) of a component having antibacterial and antifungal effects (for example, sodium azide) is contained in the buffer.
(Less than%), so that the urine is allowed to pass through the transportation route.

The timing for passing the above-mentioned buffer solution through the urine transport path is once a day (timing 1),
It can be considered once a week (timing 2), once for each measurement (timing 3), and so on. Then, for example, a relatively short timing 1 is selected when the mold and other bacteria are prone to breeding, such as the rainy season, and conversely, a relatively long timing 2 is selected when the mold and other bacteria are difficult to breed, such as the winter season. You may do it. In addition, when the number of measurements per day is relatively large, the urine transport route is well cleaned, so that molds and germs are unlikely to propagate. On the contrary, when the number of measurements per day is relatively small, or when the measurement is not performed for many days, molds and other germs are likely to attach and proliferate. Therefore, the timing of passing the liquid may be changed in consideration of the number of measurements per day.

However, unexpected phenomena may occur in the reproduction of algae, molds and other bacteria. In other words, even if it is possible to prevent breeding in a laboratory or a certain installation place, if a substance with strong breeding power is sucked, the aiming effect cannot be exerted, and as a result, algae or Molds and other spores sprouted and adhered, reducing the area of the pipeline and blocking it, and the measured values gradually became unreliable. Therefore, in this embodiment, the liquid supply pipe is cleaned with a cleaning agent at the time of regular maintenance so that algae and mold can be removed.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view showing the vicinity of the drainage port of the tube 152. At the time of regular maintenance, as shown in FIG. 8, the rim-mounted urine collection unit 1 is provided with a container 900 containing a solution containing a hypochlorite ion ClO- which is a cleaning agent.
2 Connect to the drain port of the tube 152 located at the bottom. At this time, the outlet 901 of the container 900 is attached to the tube 15
Although the tube 152 is press-fitted and fixed in the waste water port 2, the tube 152 is an elastic body, so that it can be easily connected. Furthermore, container 9
00 is rotated and attached from the state of the chain double-dashed line in FIG. 8 to the fixed state shown by the solid line. In the fixed state, the locking portion 902 of the container 900 is the rim-mounted urine collection unit 1.
2 It is locked on the upper surface and fixed stably.

When cleaning, the cleaning mode switch 386 shown in FIG. 23 is pressed. Then, the rotor 18 shown in FIG.
The port 174 communicates with the transfer tube 150 port by 0, and the piston 168 descends to suck the solution in the container 900 into the cylinder 166. Thereafter, the rotor 180 connects the port 174 to the urine collection port, and the piston 16
8 rises to the top and drains the solution in cylinder 166 from the toilet bowl. The time during which the solution containing the hypochlorite ion ClO- stays in the pipe is set to about 10 seconds so that algae, mold and the like can be removed more reliably. After discharging the solution containing hypochlorite ion ClO-, wash the pipes and the urine collection part with water to prevent the residue of hypochlorite ion ClO-, as in the usual operation after the measurement. ing.

At the time of regular maintenance, if the aforesaid algae and molds that may reduce or block the area of the pipeline are removed by performing the above-mentioned cleaning of the pipeline, the area of the pipeline can be kept constant. You can maintain credibility. Moreover, according to the said structure, since it is not necessary to attach or detach the piping through which urine passes, it is hygienic. Furthermore, since the structure is simple, such as no need to install a special mechanism for cleaning the pipeline,
The cost increase can also be suppressed. The cleaning frequency should be at least once a year, but depending on the usage conditions, it may be carried out appropriately depending on the timing of replacement / replenishment of consumables.

Next, the means for notifying the user of the replacement time of the urine sugar sensor 28 and the timing will be described. Figure 4
As described in 0, since the enzyme film of the urine sugar sensor 28 is a protein, the number of times of use is limited and the life span of time exists. First, regarding the number of times of use, see FIG.
Although it has been stated in step S788 that the lifespan of the number of times of use of the sensor is counted up, the data of the number of times of use of the sensor is updated here. Of course, this step may be inserted at any place during the measurement process. Next, regarding the time life, this is the time to energize the controller 36 by using the time timer in the CPU 362.
The EEPROM 3 is set at regular intervals (for example, every hour).
I am trying to store it in 67.

As in the case of the calibration solution and the buffer solution, M level and L level are provided for the sensor life notice.
The urine sugar sensor replacement LED 394 in FIG. 23 blinks and lights up to notify the user. The notification means is not limited to the above-described means, and like the calibration solution and the buffer solution, the communication terminal shown in FIG. 10 may be used to transmit to the outside of the toilet by optical communication or the like, and may be received by the portable remote controller or the like. By doing so, it is possible to know the usage history and the lifespan notice of the sensor without going to the spot.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various embodiments can be implemented without departing from the gist of the present invention. Of course you can get it. For example, as a method for detecting urine, in addition to a change in impedance between electrodes arranged on or near the sensor, a change in temperature caused by a thermistor, a method in which contact with a urine sample is detected by a pressure sensor, etc. Can be considered.

Although the necessity of replenishing the calibrating solution and the buffer solution, which are consumable items, and the replacement of the urinary sugar sensor 28 has already been described, other motors such as the pump 16, the rotary valve syringe 18, and the urine collecting arm 32 are used. Parts used and sliding parts wear out (wear) in proportion to the number of times they are used, so they need to be replaced at the end of their life. As for the lifespan of these components, the number of times of use may be stored in the EEPROM 367 as in the case of the urine sugar sensor 28, and the user may be notified when a predetermined number of times is measured. Note that the wear (wear) of these parts has different properties from the calibration solution, the buffer solution, and the urine sugar sensor 28. Therefore, when the urine test apparatus 10 is regularly maintained (for example, every year), the repair is performed. The trader may notify only by a hidden switch for checking the number of times of use.
This hidden switch, for example, when the cancel switch 383 shown in FIG. 23 is pressed for a certain time (3 seconds) or more continuously while the urine test apparatus 10 is on standby, the number of times of measurement by the user is displayed on the display unit 39. It can be realized by doing so. The repairman can judge the replacement of each component by comparing the displayed number of measurements with the recommended number of replacements of each component.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a procedure for replacing parts. For example, the pump 16 can be easily replaced with another pump 16a, and the rotary valve syringe 18 can be easily replaced with another rotary valve syringe 18a. In this way, design consideration is given so that it is not necessary to remove components other than the target component when replacing each component.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which a urine test device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is attached to a western-style toilet 100.

FIG. 2 shows a rim-mounted urine collection unit 12 mounted on a Western-style toilet 10
Side view showing the state of being attached to 0

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a urine test apparatus 10.

FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of a rim-mounted urine collection unit 12.

FIG. 5 is a structural diagram of a urine collecting arm 32.

FIG. 6 is a view showing an extended position of the urine collecting arm 32 when collecting urine.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an extended position of the urine collecting arm 32 when collecting urine.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the drainage hole of the tube 152.

FIG. 9 is a front view of the measurement unit 11.

FIG. 10 is a left side view of the measurement unit 11.

FIG. 11 is a top view of the measurement unit 11.

FIG. 12: Calibration solution replenishment port 242, buffer solution replenishment port 262
Perspective view of

FIG. 13 is a fitting shape of the calibration solution replenishing port 242 and the calibration solution replenishing nozzle 244.

FIG. 14 is a fitting shape of a buffer solution replenishing port 262 and a buffer solution replenishing nozzle 264.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example in which nozzles are stored on the back side of a cover 116.

FIG. 16 is an internal view of the measurement unit 11.

FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the rotary valve syringe 18.

FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of internal structures of a calibration solution tank 24 and a buffer solution tank 26.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the urine test apparatus 10.

FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of the detection principle of the urine sugar sensor 28.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing how to replace parts.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a change with time in sensor output during measurement.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an operation unit 38.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a urine sugar test procedure.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing step S100 of FIG.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing step S150 of FIG.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing step S200 of FIG.

28 is a flowchart showing step S350 of FIG.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing step S400 of FIG.

30 is a flowchart showing step S450 of FIG.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing step S500 of FIG.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing step S550 in FIG.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing step S600 of FIG.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing step S650 of FIG.

FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing step S700 of FIG.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing step S750 of FIG.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing step S750 of FIG.

FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing a modification of the urine measurement shown in FIG.

FIG. 39 is a diagram showing a change in output of the urine sugar sensor 28 after energization.

FIG. 40 is a diagram showing temperature characteristics of the urine sugar sensor 28.

FIG. 41 is a schematic configuration diagram of heating units 236 and 250.

FIG. 42 is a view showing another example of the liquid amount detecting means.

FIG. 43 is a view showing another example of the liquid amount detecting means.

FIG. 44 is a view showing another example of the liquid amount detecting means.

[Explanation of symbols]

10 ... Urinalysis device 11 ... Measuring unit 12 ... Rim-mounted urine collection unit 14 ... Piping 15 ... Water supply department 16 ... Pump 16a ... another pump 18 ... Rotary valve syringe 18a ... Another rotary valve syringe 20 ... Rotary valve drive motor 22 ... Syringe drive motor 23 ... Urine collection arm drive motor 24 ... Calibration liquid tank 25 ... Liquid receiving container 26 ... Buffer tank 28 ... Urine sugar sensor 29 ... Sound source 30 ... Washing nozzle 32 ... Urine collection arm 34 ... Electrode 36 ... Controller 38 ... Operation unit 39 ... Display 76 ... Transport tube 92 ... Transport tube 100 ... Western style toilet 102 ... Toilet seat 104 ... Stool lid 106 ... Wash water tank 111a ... Adjuster 111 ... Reinforcing legs 112 ... Screw mounting part 114 ... Communication terminal 115 ... Hook receiver 116 ... Cover 117 ... Hook 118 ... Entrance 119 ... Wall 120 ... Exit 130 ... Potentiostat 132 ... Resistance 133 ... reference electrode 134 ... Amplifying circuit 135 ... Working pole 136 ... Output terminal 137 ... Counter electrode 150 ... Conveyor tube 151 ... Water supply pipe 152 ... tube 166 ... Cylinder 168 ... piston 172 ... Reed screw mechanism 174 ... Port 176 ... Electric rotary valve 178 ... Stator 180 ... rotor 186 ... Discharge pipe 210 ... Drain 215 ... Power supply unit 236 ... Heating unit 237 ... Temperature sensor 241 ... Cap 242 ... Calibration solution replenishment port 243 ... cover 244 ... Nozzle for replenishing calibration solution 244a ... Tip 244b ... Coupling part 250 ... Heating unit 251 ... Temperature sensor 260 ... Human body detection sensor 261 ... Temperature sensor 262 ... Buffer replenishing port 263 ... Aluminum foil 264 ... Nozzle for replenishing buffer solution 264a ... Tip 264b ... Coupling part 267 ... Cap 282 ... Power transformer 283 ... Fall detection switch 362 ... CPU 364 ... ROM 366 ... RAM 367 ... EEPROM 368 ... Input processing circuit 380 ... Output processing circuit 381 ... man switch 382 ... Female switch 383 ... Cancel switch 384 ... Memory / call switch 385 ... A to D switch 386 ... Cleaning mode switch 387 ... Current time switch 388 ... Power saving time switch 389 ... Adjustment switch 391 ... Fluorescent display tube 391a ... Character display section 391b ... Date and time display section 392 ... Buffer replenishment LED 393 ... Calibration liquid replenishment LED 394 ... Urine sugar sensor exchange LED 395 ... LED under preparation 396 ... LED of A to D 621 ... Electrode (common) 622 ... Electrode (L) 623 ... Electrode (M) 624 ... Electrode (H) 625 ... Float 626 ... Display member 627 ... Float indicator rod 628 ... Window 629 ... Axis 630 ... Strainer 650 ... Base 651 ... rubber, sucker 652 ... Urine collection section 656 ... Filter 670 ... Backup power supply 800 ... Float 810 ... Elastic body 812 ... Micro switch 814 ... Float 900 ... Container 901 ... Exit 902 ... Locking part

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI theme code (reference) G01N 27/327 G01N 33/483 F 27/416 27/46 338 33/483 27/30 351 27/46 336H 336G (72) Inventor Kazuhiro Nakamura 2-1-1 Nakajima, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture F-term in Totoki Equipment Co., Ltd. (reference) 2D038 AA00 ZA03 2G045 AA15 BB15 BB19 CA25 CB03 CB07 CB12 DA04 DA30 DA35 DA36 DA58 DA69 DA74 DB21 FB01 FB05 GC20 HA08 HA09 JA01 JA07 2G052 AA32 AB01 AB16 AD06 AD46 BA04 BA14 BA17 CA02 CA04 CA08 CA29 CA40 DA01 EA03 EA04 EA14 EB11 EB12 FC07 FC12 FC16 FD06 GA11 GA23 GA29 HA01 HA08 HA12 HA04 HC04 HC04 HC04 H04 H04 JA09 JA15 JA16 JA20 JA23 JA28 JA30

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A urine collecting part for rotating the inside of a toilet bowl to receive a user's excrement, a sensor mechanism for measuring a concentration of a predetermined component contained in the excrement, and a excrement from the urine collecting part to the sensor mechanism. Excrete including a liquid supply pipe for supplying liquid, a drainage pipe for discharging the excrement sent to the sensor mechanism into the inside of the toilet bowl, and a liquid sending and draining means for sending and discharging liquid The excrement measuring device, wherein the measuring device comprises a cleaning means for supplying a pipe cleaning agent inside the liquid supply pipe and the drainage pipe. 2. The cleaning means detachably connects an outlet of a container storing the pipe cleaning agent to an end of the drainage pipe facing the inside of the toilet bowl, and connects the drainage pipe to the liquid delivery pipe. The excrement measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the excrement measuring device is cleaned by sending the pipe cleaning agent to the urine collecting part via a liquid. 3. The excrement measuring device according to claim 2, wherein a locking portion is provided on the outer shell of the container, and the locking portion allows the container to be stably fixed to another member. 4. The liquid supply of the pipe cleaning agent by the cleaning means is performed by driving the liquid supply / drainage means based on a predetermined operation of a user. Excrement measuring device described. 5. The pipe cleaning agent is retained inside the liquid supply pipe and the drainage pipe for a certain period of time when the pipe cleaning agent is fed by the cleaning means. The excrement measuring device according to claim 4. 6. After the pipe cleaning agent is fed by the cleaning means, water is passed through the inside of the liquid feeding pipe and the drain pipe by driving the liquid feeding and draining means to prevent the pipe cleaning agent from remaining. The excrement measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein 7. The excrement measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the pipe cleaning agent is a solution containing hypochlorite ions.